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Duke Nukem Forever Goes Gold

Over-the-top shooter set for launch on June 10 internationally, June 14 in N.A.

The Chinese Democracy of video games will, after nearly 15 years in development, finally be released next month. Duke Nukem Forever has gone gold, 2K Games and Gearbox Software announced this morning, and the over-the-top shooter will ship on June 10 internationally and on June 14 in North America.

George Broussard, one of the Duke's original creators, began production on Forever in 1997 at 3D Realms. After countless delays, millions in development costs, multiple Vaporware Awards, a contentious lawsuit with the game's publisher, a move to Gearbox, and a final delay in April, the game is finally, officially complete.

"Duke Nukem Forever and its journey to store shelves is legendary," Broussard said in a statement. "It's an epic tale of four game development studios that banded together and did the unthinkable and shipped the unshippable."

"When you play this game you will be reminded of that epic journey at every turn and in every small detail of the game," Broussard continued. "The character, attitude, interactivity, gameplay and political incorrectness combine to make a Duke Nukem game a unique gaming experience. In the timeless words of Duke Nukem, it's finally time to 'Come get some.' Come be a part of gaming history."

"Always bet on Duke, I did," said Randy Pitchford, president of Gearbox Software. "I bet on all of the developers who have ever been a part of this legendary project and I bet that none of us want to live in a world without the Duke. I've played the final game and it is an incredible experience -- a once-in-a-lifetime opus of interactive entertainment that reminds me once again why Duke Nukem is our King."

Sharkey says: A year ago, I don't think anyone thought Forever would ever see the light of day. I'm still amazed Gearbox was able to salvage the game, and I can't wait to see what a title first created nearly 15 years ago plays like. Get some.